Alan’s Fight Against a Rare and Aggressive Cancer

In October, Alan’s world was turned upside down. A small tumor in his neck was diagnosed as Chondrosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects just 1 in 200,000 people in the U.S. and forms in the cartilage of the spine.

On November 24th, Alan endured a 10-hour surgery. Doctors were only able to remove part of the tumor pressing on his spine, and the procedure left him with permanent paralysis in his left arm.

By late December, Alan and Lynne learned that, with a new team of surgeons, he would need a second major spinal surgery this month (February) before radiation could even begin. They will need to temporarily relocate their lives to Charlotte, North Carolina to receive the specialized care he requires.

After recovery from this next surgery, Alan will undergo Proton Beam Therapy — a highly precise radiation treatment that can target the tumor while protecting the delicate nerves around his spine. Every session is critical, because this cancer is aggressive and time is precious.

What Lies Ahead

With guidance from the Chondrosarcoma Foundation and a proton radiation team in Charlotte, specialists have laid out a challenging but necessary plan:

• Two complex neck and spine surgeries

• Approximately one week hospitalized

• Several weeks of careful radiation planning

• Six weeks of Proton Radiation, five days a week

During this time, Alan and Lynne will be living away from home, family, and everything familiar, fully dedicating themselves to his care.

The Financial Reality

They now face overwhelming costs for:

• Temporary housing while away for treatment

• Travel and daily living expenses

• Medical bills not covered by insurance

• Regular bills back home

They applied for financial assistance but were denied because their income is slightly above federal limits — leaving them in an impossible gap.

Why Your Support Matters

This cancer is rare and not considered curable. Every surgery, every treatment, every day of care is about giving Alan more time — more time with Lynne, their loved ones, and their beloved dogs.

They cannot face this alone. Your support — whether a donation, a prayer, or simply sharing their story — can make a real difference, easing their burden and allowing them to focus on what matters most: Alan’s fight and their time together.

Please help surround Alan and Lynne with love, hope, and support. ❤️